Meet Valerie Amezcua
Proven, People‑Focused Leadership for Santa Ana
Valerie is running for re‑election as Mayor of Santa Ana with a record of results, collaboration, and community‑driven leadership. Recognized as a long‑time community builder and consensus‑driven leader, she made history in 2022 as the first woman elected to lead Santa Ana in its 153‑year history. Her election marked a turning point one defined by transparency, partnership, and a renewed commitment to improving the quality of life for every resident.
Mayor Amezcua entered office with a clear promise: prioritize public safety, address homelessness with compassion and accountability, strengthen economic opportunity, and ensure that city government works hand‑in‑hand with the community. Throughout her first term, she has delivered on that commitment by building strong partnerships with neighborhood leaders, educational institutions, businesses, and regional agencies. Her leadership is defined by responsiveness, equity, and open communication, earning her recognition for her accessibility and her proactive, solutions‑oriented approach to governing.
Regional Leadership & Representation
As Mayor, Valerie Amezcua ensures Santa Ana’s voice is heard at every level of regional decision‑making. She represents the city on several key boards and committees, including:
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Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors
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Orange County Water District, District 8 (OCWD)
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Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG)
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Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG)
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Association of California Cities Orange County (ACCOC)
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Chair, ACCOC Housing and Homelessness Committee
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Discovery Cube Board
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U.S. Conference of Mayors
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Alternate, Transportation Corridor Agencies Board (TCA)
Her service on these bodies ensures Santa Ana receives the resources, representation, and long‑term planning support it deserves.
A Legacy of Service Before the Mayor’s Office
Before becoming Mayor, Valerie Amezcua served on the Santa Ana Unified School District Board from 2014 to 2022, including five years as President or Vice President. During her tenure, she championed reforms that improved graduation rates, strengthened campus safety, and expanded parental involvement. Her work supporting children, youth, and families laid the foundation for her transition into city leadership.
Her long record of community involvement also includes service on the Board of Directors for the National Hispanic Business Women’s Association (NHBWA), as well as the City of Santa Ana’s Human Relations Commission and Early Prevention & Intervention Commission.
Valerie has been honored by numerous organizations for her public service, including recognition as one of Orange County’s Top 100 Most Influential People by the Orange County Register, along with awards from NHBWA, the United States Congress, the League of United Latin American Citizens, and the Women of Distinction program.
Professional Background & Education
Mayor Amezcua’s professional career spans 30 years with the Orange County Probation Department, where she served as a Supervising Probation Officer specializing in gang suppression, sex crimes, and domestic violence intervention. She retired in 2017 after a distinguished career dedicated to public safety and community well‑being.
She is a graduate of the University of La Verne and earned a certificate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education in Family Engagement in Education—training that continues to inform her work with families, youth, and community partners.
Deep Roots in Santa Ana
Valerie's commitment to Santa Ana is deeply personal. Her family has been involved in civic life for generations—her grandmother was active in local affairs, and her father served as a Community College Board Trustee and long‑time civic leader. Valerie carries that legacy forward with pride.
As a devoted wife and mother, she is driven by a single purpose: securing a strong, vibrant future for Santa Ana. She is committed to building on the city’s strengths—its rich history, its cultural vibrancy, and the pride of its people, businesses, and community organizations.